Thesis Work - Degas Bottle Optimization for a BEV Thermal Management System i Göteborg

Thesis Worker at Volvo Cars

Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars by writing your thesis with us! As a thesis worker in our organization you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. All thesis projects are arranged in business critical areas and therefore you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one! 

Background 
The rapid transformation of the automotive market towards electric vehicles is to great extent driven by the technological improvements in the thermal management area. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) are more sensitive on working temperature than traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, since efficient working temperature window of batteries is narrower than for ICE. Moreover, energy required for other functions (e.g. Climate comfort) is also provided by the traction battery, therefore impacting the driving range of the BEV. Therefore, having an optimized thermal management system is key in order to have an efficient BEV with increased driving range.
 
Scope 
The degas bottle is a vital part of the Thermal Management system, which is regulating the upper and lower pressure levels for the system, by allowing the coolant to safely expand. It also serves to separate the air from the coolant. 

With the transition to BEV cars, the coolant circuit is increased in size due to the growing number of components that needs temperature regulation. By this, it also generates an increased complexity of the circuit to accommodate many different cooling / heating modes. The method for dimensioning the expansion tank is based on the experience from hybrid / ICE cars and needs to be developed for electrified applications.  

Main tasks will be:
•    Develop a calculation / simulation method to design a space- and function-optimized degas bottle which can be used for any future system.
•    Testing and simulation of degas bottle position in the car, as well as the position of the degas bottle in the Thermal Management system itself.

Areas of research:
•    What are the design parameters for dimensioning the degas bottle?
•    How does the strategy of flow rate in the system affect the dimensioning of the degas bottle?
•    Investigate the draw-down phenomenon in a Thermal management system (given the layout of the components in the circuit), to be able to better dimension the degas bottle.

Do you fit the profile 
1-2 Master student(s) with background Mechanical Engineering, or Similar Education. Knowledge and interest in fluid dynamics and simulations is needed. Appreciated (but now required) experience with GT-suite or similar 1D simulation software. Do you have a co-worker in mind to work along with, don’t forget to include his/her name in the cover letter.

Duration 
•    The duration of the Thesis is 20 weeks
•    The Thesis starts in January 2022 or earlier if possible.
•    30 ECTS (academic credits) in agreement with your Thesis Advisor in University
•    This thesis is suitable for 1- 2 students

How to learn more and apply 
Selection will be ongoing during the application period, so do not hesitate to send in your application. Attach your Cv and personal letter stating your interests within the given area and your thoughts and credentials.  Apply as soon as possible but no later than November 7th. Please note that applications via email will not be accepted. 

For questions about the thesis work please contact Maria Rehnberg at maria.rehnberg@volvocars.com 
 

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